
This Week in Startups How to value startups (VC School) + Creating Diamonds from Air with Aether’s Ryan Shearman (Climate) | E1482
Jun 12, 2022
Ryan Shearman, CEO of Aether and climate tech angel investor, discusses revolutionary diamonds made from atmospheric carbon. He shares insights on the ethical benefits of lab-grown diamonds, appealing particularly to younger consumers. The conversation dives into the growing market acceptance of these gems and highlights their potential for driving climate action. Additionally, Shearman reflects on his personal journey into climate tech, spurred by the impacts of hurricanes, emphasizing the importance of creating a meaningful legacy.
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Understanding Pre-Seed
- Pre-seed funding is often sought by founders who want to bypass accelerators and friends-and-family rounds.
- It indicates a desire for seed valuations without substantial prior work.
Honest Bridge Rounds
- Terms like "seed extension" or "pre-Series A" often mask the need for a bridge round.
- Be honest about needing a bridge; it signals you missed targets and require more time.
Exceeding Expectations
- Jason recounts a scenario where a company exceeded expectations and offered a favorable investment opportunity.
- This highlights the importance of open communication and exceeding milestones.



